YWCA La Crosse

In 1903—decades before women were recognized as equals under the law—women and men in the Coulee Region came together with a shared purpose: to care for their most vulnerable neighbors. Their collective action led to the founding of YWCA La Crosse, officially established in 1906.

For more than a century, YWCA La Crosse has been a trusted community anchor, creating opportunities for girls to grow into leaders, advocating for women and marginalized populations, and empowering individuals and families to achieve safety, stability, and self-sufficiency.

Today, more than 120 years later, YWCA La Crosse continues its mission to eliminate racism, empower women, and promote peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. This mission comes to life through our core programs, including Supportive Housing, Restorative Justice, Child Care, and Community Education—each designed to meet community needs, strengthen families, and create lasting change.